Germany Restricts Arms Exports to Israel for Weeks in 2025

Germany informed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that it had significantly restricted arms exports to Israel between August and November 2025, with no final export licenses issued for weeks during that period. The German representative stated that these measures were taken to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The restrictions were part of a broader policy adjustment by Berlin, which has been closely monitoring the situation in Israel, Gaza, and the broader region.

The German government claimed that the number of arms export licenses to Israel dropped sharply during the specified timeframe. Specifically, no licenses were issued for the final export of arms to Israel between August 8 and September 12, 2025. This pause in arms shipments was linked to an Israeli military offensive and the need to align exports with international legal standards. Germany emphasized that its export licensing policy is continuously reviewed and subject to judicial oversight.

Despite these restrictions, reports indicate that Germany approved nearly €800 million in military equipment exports to Israel in the first half of 2025. This figure, reported by the German newspaper Der Spiegel, highlights the complexity of Berlin’s stance on arms sales to Israel. The government has defended its actions, stating that exports resumed at the end of 2025 following a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. This suggests a direct connection between the resumption of arms exports and the humanitarian situation on the ground.

Germany maintains that its export decisions are guided by international law and the need to prevent the misuse of military equipment. The country argues that its actions are in line with its obligations under the 1948 Genocide Convention and international humanitarian law. However, Nicaragua has accused Germany of violating these obligations by providing political, financial, and military support to Israel, as well as by suspending funding to the United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).

Nicaragua’s allegations against Germany center on the claim that the country has failed to uphold its legal responsibilities by continuing to support Israel’s military actions. Germany, however, has rejected these accusations and asserts that the ICJ lacks jurisdiction to hear Nicaragua’s case. The dispute underscores the broader tensions surrounding Israel’s role in regional conflicts and the international community’s response to such involvement.

The situation reflects the complex interplay between national policy, international law, and the moral responsibilities of states in times of conflict. As the ICJ proceedings continue, the case highlights the challenges of balancing security interests with humanitarian obligations. The biblical principle found in Micah 6:8—“He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God”—reminds us of the enduring call to pursue peace and justice in our dealings with others.

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)